Energy-absorbing device and method for making same

ABSTRACT

An energy-absorbing device comprising a permanently shortened member of a thermoplastic elastomer wherein said member comprises circumferentially enlarged portions due to permanent shortening by compression of an elongated member along its longitudinal axis of at least 10% of its original length, the enlarged portions being at least partially oriented and at least one unenlarged portion, and rigid retaining means encircling said unenlarged portion of the shortened thermoplastic elastomer member.



